| SAN 20th ANNIVERSARY: PART III |
SEMA Action Network Reaches High Gear
It didn’t take long for the SAN to begin seeing a transition away from fighting the government to proactively creating mutually beneficial relationships with lawmakers and regulators. As unresolved legislative issues were discovered throughout the auto hobby, fair solutions were pursued. With the ever-growing popularity of street rods and customs—especially the replica and kit car varieties—the need for unique licensing designations became critical. Modified vintage and reproduction vehicles did not fall under existing state classifications for decades. In many states, outdated and convoluted registration rules created confusion among motorists and those charged with applying these laws at the ground level. Thus began the task of designing and implementing reasonable titling, registration, emissions and equipment standards nationwide.
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Jeff Williams’s grandson enjoys riding in the family’s 1955 Packard Clipper Custom Constellation. “Brett likes the look of the classic 1950s rides,” Jeff says. “I’m very proud that he is aware that the Packard’s 352 c.i. engine was the largest V8 available in the U.S. in 1955!”
Earlier this year, Pennsylvania’s Jeff Williams reached out to his elected officials in support of a pro-hobby proposal. At the time, legislation to allow owners of historic military vehicles the opportunity to obtain Historic Military Vehicle License Plates in the state had been approved by the House. It was then sent to the Senate for consideration. “I feel these historic military vehicles should have unique recognition and agree with the bill’s intent,” wrote Williams. Jeff and the rest of the SEMA Action Network (SAN) are awaiting further legislative action. “New laws at all levels ultimately impact our ability to enjoy all things automotive,” he adds. “The SAN helps enable us ‘car nuts’ to keep, maintain and share our prized possessions with future generations. These cars, motorcycles and military vehicles are historical artifacts!”
Jeff has a long history with motorized machines. “One day, I may restore my trusty 1972 BMW R75/5 motorcycle to ‘as-new’ condition, but for now I enjoy the patina of 45 years of riding adventures.” His other bike is a 2010 Harley Sportster. A few “fun cars” are currently maintained for his dad. These in-progress projects include a supercharged 289-powered 1957 Studebaker Golden Hawk and a “Banker’s hot rod” 1955 Packard Clipper Custom Constellation. Williams proudly keeps the car hobby’s flame lit by involving his grandchildren. “We attend the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix every year, showing a car or just going for the car shows and vintage car races. This year, we had a friend running a 1960 Elva Mk Vi in the group 1 race!” Someday he would like to own a 1971 Plymouth Roadrunner or GTX.
Your work to inspire a healthy future for our hobby is applauded, Jeff!
Stay Up-to-Date on the RPM Act: Get the latest information on the motorsports bill at sema.org/epa-news.
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